First train from VLocity order hits the tracks

The first from an order of 23 new VLocity trains, made in Victoria by Alstom for the state’s regional V/Line services, has begun transporting passengers.

According to a statement from public transport minister Gabrielle Williams on Thursday, the train is numbered 119 and the first from the order, worth a total of $601 million and made in the budget last year.

“More Victorians than ever are choosing regional rail travel thanks to our fare cap, and we’re responding to this increased popularity with new trains and extra services,” said Williams.

According to Victorian government figures, regional network patronage was up 28 per cent in the last calendar year.

Work on the order at Alstom’s Dandenong factory was announced in March. 

Approximately one three-car train is scheduled to be built per month. 

The 23-train order will replace the longest-serving of the Classic Fleet trains and bring the VLocity fleet to 141.

Alstom was also awarded a $1.5 billion tender last December for the VLocity and classic fleet for a decade.

Picture: credit Alstom

Further reading

Work begins at Dandenong on new VLocity trains

Victoria buys 18 more VLocity trains

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